The History of Tom Jones, a Foundling · Character

Captain Blifil

Fortune-hunting captain who marries Bridget Allworthy and dies early.

minor

Also known as Captain John Blifil

First appearance: The History of Tom Jones, a Foundling

Captain Blifil shows up with force in The History of Tom Jones, a Foundling. The page is where that presence becomes real.

A suitor who marries Bridget Allworthy, becoming a key figure in the household.

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Captain Blifil first appears in 0001 the history of tom jones a foundling.

In The History of Tom Jones, a Foundling: A suitor who marries Bridget Allworthy, becoming a key figure in the household.

Later, in Chapter II: Introduced as the doctor's brother, a half-pay officer with a scar on his forehead, a rough manner, but the ability to appear gentle and good-humored. He is a master of the art of love.

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Character Web

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Other

Character groups

Central plot characters
Sophia's aristocratic suitors
Minor and background figures

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Narrative arc

Story tension across the book.

Setup
Escalation
Breaking point
Aftermath
Closing

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In the story

Captain Blifil appears across 11 companion beats. Open any chapter in the free preview to see the notes beside the text.

The History of Tom Jones, a Foundling
A suitor who marries Bridget Allworthy, becoming a key figure in the household.
Chapter II
Introduced as the doctor's brother, a half-pay officer with a scar on his forehead, a rough manner, but the ability to appear gentle and good-humored. He is a master of the art of love.
XI
The captain makes his advances to Miss Bridget, balancing private affection with public reserve to avoid suspicion from Mr. Allworthy.
Chapter XII
Marries Bridget Allworthy during this chapter; his brother the doctor attempts to disown him.
XIII
Shows cruel ingratitude toward his brother after marrying Miss Bridget and being reconciled to Allworthy.
Book II
Married to Miss Bridget Allworthy, central to the matrimonial scenes.
Chapter II
Marries Bridget Allworthy; argues against Allworthy's favoritism toward the foundling, citing Scripture to justify punishing bastards.
V
Argues that charity in Scripture means candor, not almsgiving, and reveals Partridge's identity to Allworthy, acting out of jealousy toward the foundling.
VII
The captain's marriage to Bridget sours as he treats her opinions with haughtiness; he harbors hatred for her and resents Allworthy's generosity toward Tom.
Chapter VIII
Dies of an apoplexy while contemplating Mr. Allworthy's death and planning to inherit his fortune.
IX
Found dead; his body is brought in and attempts to revive him fail.

Chapter companion notes

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